Merit scholarship for Ellie

Philanthropy at the university rewards and advances academic excellence through research funding and merit prizes.

Over 100 guests, including students, staff, alumni, donors and supporters came together to celebrate at our annual celebration event in February to applaud the achievements of students who have won scholarships, awards or funding over the past year.

Primary Education (5-11 years) BA(Hons) with QTS student Eleanor Watson received a Merit Scholarship.

Ellie said the one thing she knew for certain when she left school was that she did not want to be a teacher! She comes from a long line of teachers and was determined not to follow in her family’s footsteps. Thankfully, she eventually realised that teaching dance is the job for her.

Ellie said: “Teaching is one of the best jobs in the world, being a part of impacting children’s lives is worth so much.

“I am a huge advocate for performing arts in education. The curriculum is being starved of creativity and when children say school is boring, something has gone drastically wrong!

“The award has boosted my confidence to aim higher than I did before, and I’m determined to instil change in education because the arts do something for young people’s lives that nothing else can achieve!”

She concluded by saying “The world of education needs to ready itself for Ellie Watson!” and we think she is right!

Many congratulations Ellie.